Bears Face Injury Challenges Before Steelers Showdown

CHICAGO, Ill. – The Chicago Bears are gearing up for their Week 12 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, aiming to win their eighth game in the last nine and maintain sole possession of first place in the NFC North.

However, the Bears released their final injury report this week, revealing a significant blow to their defense. Chicago will be without all three starting linebackers: Tremaine Edmunds (groin), T.J. Edwards (hand/hamstring), and Noah Sewell (elbow). In their absence, D’Marco Jackson, rookie Ruben Hyppolite, and Amen Ogbongbemiga are expected to see extended playing time, which poses a challenge against the Steelers’ offense, particularly if quarterback Aaron Rodgers returns to the lineup.

The good news for the Bears comes in the form of cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson (groin) and Kyler Gordon (calf), both marked as questionable for Sunday’s contest. Johnson participated fully in practice for the first time in over two months, suggesting he may be close to returning after a lengthy recovery. However, Gordon remained limited in practice, indicating he may still need more time.

Other players who are also listed as questionable include left tackle Theo Benedet (quad) and safety Jaquan Brisker (shoulder). Overall, the injury report suggests the Bears are managing a tough situation ahead of the critical matchup.

Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen emphasized the importance of getting their injured players back on the field. “They’re good players, and getting those guys back is going to help our defense,” he said. He added that there is excitement around having Johnson back, although he acknowledged challenges with the current linebacker situation.

In contrast, the Steelers have their own injury issues. Rodgers practiced on a limited basis this week after suffering a fracture in his left wrist but his ability to start on Sunday remains uncertain.

The Bears will look to overcome their injury woes as they face the Steelers this Sunday at Soldier Field, with kickoff set for 12:00 p.m. (Chicago time).